#FightFlu This National Influenza Vaccination Week

The colder weather is here and with it the start to Influenza season. National Influenza Vaccination Week (NIVW) is observed every December as a reminder to get vaccinated against flu to be protected during the season.

Given the current state of the COVID-19 pandemic, the increased health risks for populations with comorbidities, and the burdens being faced by the healthcare system, it is recommended that everyone aged six months and older “sleeve up” to fight flu.

When thinking about flu vaccines, consider the following:

• Getting a flu vaccine is particularly important for individuals who are most vulnerable to developing serious flu complications, including people with certain chronic conditions such as asthma, diabetes and heart disease.
• Last flu season, 9 out of 10 adults hospitalized for flu had at least one reported underlying medical condition.
• Older adults are at higher risk of developing serious flu complications due in part to changes in immune defense that come with increasing age.
• The side effects of flu shots are mild in comparison to the consequences of a flu infection.
• Coupled with present comorbidities, flu can make long-term health problems worse.

Access more flu resources here.